Five Important Truths About Filing A Long-Term Disability Claim In Florida
The Florida Health Department warns that more than 3.5 million people throughout the state suffer from disabilities. When they prevent you from working for a year or more, you may be entitled to long-term disability benefits.
These may be available through your employer or by filing a Social Security disability claim. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths surrounding the process. Our Jacksonville long-term disability lawyer shares five important truths you need to be aware of.
- You may be entitled to long-term disability (LTD) benefits both through your employer and through the Social Security Administration.
Long-term disability benefits are often included as part of your employee compensation program. While you work, you accrue credits for Social Security disability insurance (SSDI). It is possible to claim long-term disability benefits through both, but insurers typically require you to file for SSDI first and then make up any difference in coverage.
- Up to two-thirds of Social Security disability claims are denied.
You may be entitled to Social Security disability benefits if you have a qualifying condition and have accrued the required 40 credits. However, as shocking as it seems, it is a fact that up to two-thirds of all SSDI claims end up being denied on the first try. Fortunately, your chances of getting benefits increase when filing an appeal.
- Insurance companies are not on your side.
When dealing with employer-provided or privately purchased long-term disability policies, keep in mind that the insurance representatives you speak with are not on your side. Insurance companies are for-profit businesses, and one of the ways they make money is by avoiding payouts on claims.
- In some cases, you can work and still receive benefits.
You must be unable to work for a year or longer in order to receive employer-provided or Social Security disability benefits. However, the SSDI program looks at substantial gainful activity (SGA). In many cases, you can still work part-time. Under SSA guidelines, current income limits are over $2,500.
- Having an experienced Florida long-term disability lawyer on your side significantly increases the odds of getting your claim approved.
Some people think they can save money by filing a long-term disability claim without getting legal help. Unfortunately, this can end up costing you money in the long run.
Legal fees are strictly limited under state and federal law. They are deducted from your final settlement, so you pay no out-of-pocket costs. Hiring a legal professional also significantly increases the odds of getting your benefits approved and having your claim processed in the quickest possible manner.
Contact Our Florida Long-Term Disability Lawyer Today
At Farrell Disability Law, we have decades of experience helping clients get the maximum long-term disability benefits they are entitled to with the least amount of wait time possible. To get the trusted legal guidance you need to file a claim, call or contact our Florida long-term disability lawyer online and request a consultation in our Orlando or Jacksonville office today.
Sources:
floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/people-with-disabilities/disability-and-health-program/DHP2021DataReport.pdf
ssa.gov/disability
ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10095.pdf
